Hair's the Scoop

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From the pages of Vogue and Harper's Bazaar to the set of "Oprah" to the heads of Hollywood's hottest stars, there's not a hair color Gina Gilbert hasn't been able to amplify, correct or perfect. The NYC-based colorist dishes exclusively to Hair's the Scoop on everything from her A-list clientele and mentor Serge Normant to her favorite at-home conditioning treatments and color kits. Plus, check out Gina Gilbert's lookbook on summer's hottest trends.

Most colorists have a specialty, but you've created red-carpet looks for everyone from Drew Barrymore to Julia Roberts and Jennifer Connelly. Is there a color you like working with the most? How about least?

I love brunettes, blondes and reds equally. But I do dislike when darker brunettes want to go double-process platinum blonde.

Which of this season's color trends makes you happy?

I’m excited for everyone to let the sun bring out natural highlights this summer season. Think sun-kissed!

What color-care products are worth the splurge? And when should someone save her money?

It’s important to spend on a great conditioner. Spend less on a shampoo, but make sure you get one formulated for color. With treated hair, you can shampoo less frequently — just two or three times a week — but rinsing and conditioning is necessary.

What is your all-time favorite look you've created for a client?

I loved changing Faith Hill from blonde to a more natural look with highlights for her "Fireflies" CD cover.

Now that we've covered the basics, it's time for our "lightning round" of questions:

Favorite treatment mask? Kerastase anything!

Most inspiring client? Ellen Barkin

Person you’d most like to meet, past or present? Madonna

Guilty pleasure? White wine

Most beloved at-home color kit? Clairol Root Touch-up

Funniest moment at a photo shoot? When my boss, Serge Normant, tries on wigs/hair pieces.

Most trusted colorists (other than yourself)? Harry Josh and Tracey Cunningham

Favorite holiday spot? Any place with a beautiful beach.